Playing device

ABSTRACT

The invention relates to dice suitable for use in gaming. In particular the invention relates to a new indicator system for use in gaming dice, the indicator system providing a di value. More specifically the invention relate to a di incorporating the indicator system providing a di value, and the use of the di to provide a di value, and a method of using the di.

FIELD OF THE INVENTION

The invention relates to dice suitable for use in gaming.

In particular the invention relates to a new indicator system for use in gaming dice, the indicator system providing a di value. More specifically the invention relates to a di incorporating the indicator system providing a di value, and the use of the di to provide a di value, and a method of using the di.

BACKGROUND TO THE INVENTION

Gaming dice have been used for thousands of years as a means of providing a random value from a finite set of possible values.

In modern times, the most commonly used di (singular of dice) is the six-sided di, otherwise referred to as the d6 where the number 6 denotes the number of possible (generally unique) values. Typically the d6 is formed from a cube where, upon each face of the cube, a different value is marked from the set of possible values 1 to 6. When used, the roller of the di will cast the di and the di will come to rest with one of its faces contacting the surface upon which the di is cast. The opposing face, facing upwards, will be recorded as the random value provided from the rolling event.

Typically, the d6 is constructed such that the probability of rolling any one of the values 1 to 6 is the same. In some instances, the di can be “loaded” to favour one or more values over other values—typically by engineering a biased weighting to affect the rolling dynamics of the di after being cast.

Other dice have been developed to provide random values from smaller and larger sets of possible values. To that end, dice have been developed to provide random values from sets of 2 to as many as 120, although this should not be seen as limiting—the set of values being limited only by geometrical variation of the di's structure and even combinations of elements within the di itself.

In every case, the geometry of the di will be such that after being cast the di will come to rest with one of its faces on the surface upon which the di is cast. In the overwhelming majority of cases the geometry of the di will dictate that there will be an opposing face that will lie substantially parallel to the surface on which the di is cast. In those cases, the random value will be provided by either a mark of some description on the upper face—such as an Arabic number, symbol, letter or commonly the number of “pips”. Pips are typically small indents (typically concave in profile) in the surface of the di, and the random value will be determined by counting the number of pips on that upper surface.

In the case of certain dice, namely d3 and d4, there is typically no upper surface parallel to the playing surface when the di is at rest. The d3 is typically a triangular prism—the ends of which have been rounded to prevent the di coming to rest on either unvalued end. The random value is provided by a mark (typically an Arabic numeral) on at least one of the angled sides—either at the base closest to the surface or at the top edge. Likewise, the d4 is a triangular pyramid. The random value is provided by a mark on one of the angled sides—either at the base closest to the surface or around the upper apex of the pyramid. In both the cases of the d3 and d4, however, the value provided will be independent of where it is printed on that face. When an Arabic numeral is used for the value, it will be immediately apparent to the user which of the Arabic numerals printed on any side is in the correct orientation to be read, and that numeral will provide the random value.

Dice find use in many gaming situations, including gambling and board games. Numerous games make use of multiple dice, including multiple dice of different geometry. For instance the traditional game of Dungeons & Dragons will simultaneously use d4, d6, d8, d10, d12, and d20.

The centrality of dice to determining a random value within a game has created a particular niche which is saturated with attractive dice of different colour, material, weighting, geometry. Within that field, hobbyists can collect dice for their own sake, and game developers can make use of new and attractive dice as a unique offering to the purchasers of the game.

There continues to be a desire and a need for creative alternative dice, or at least dice to provide the public with a useful choice.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

In one aspect the invention provides a di having a plurality of faces such that when in an at rest position on a surface:

(i) a first face of the di contacts the surface; and

(ii) the di provides a di value;

such that the di value in the at rest position is provided by at least one indicator on at least one other of the plurality of faces, the di value being relative to the distance between the indicator and the first face.

Typically, the di of the invention is used by rolling it along a surface which is substantially horizontal. The at rest position will typically exist with the first face of the di contacting a substantially horizontal surface. The distance between the indicator and the first face may be a vertical distance. In preferred embodiments, the di of the invention is used by rolling it along a surface which is substantially horizontal so that the di assumes an at rest position where the first face of the di contacts a substantially horizontal surface, and the distance between the indicator and the first face is a vertical distance.

As used herein “at least one other of the plurality of faces” refers to at least one of the faces of the di that is not the first face.

The or each indicator can be any indicator, particularly any visual and/or tactile indicator that allows the user to determine the di value as being relative to the distance between the indicator and the first face.

Examples of such indicators include:

-   -   marks—including: marks of substantially one dimension (such as:         dot; intersection of two or more lines, including ornamental         lines of chain, rope, graphic, text, etc); marks of         substantially two dimensions (such as line, including ornamental         lines of chain, rope, graphic, text, etc); marks of         substantially three dimensions (such as: indent; groove; ridge);     -   tactile indicators—including indent, groove, ridge, changes in         material, changes in texture;     -   colour (including black, grey and white) boundary or pattern         boundary—including boundary between two different colours;         boundary between two different shades of the same colour;         boundary between two different patterns; boundary between a         colour and a pattern.

In the di of the present invention, each at rest position provides at least one di value. For example:

-   -   in some embodiments two or more at rest positions of an n-sided         di may provide the same di value so that there are less than n         (<n) unique di values. For example, a d6 may provide 3 unique di         values—such as “positive, neutral, negative”. Typically <n         unique di values are provided by using the same or different         indicator on at least two of the plurality of faces, such that         the indicators on the at least two of the plurality of faces are         the same distance from the first face in each of the         corresponding at rest positions. For example, a d6 is provided         with 6 different at rest positions, and therefore six first         faces—one first face for each rest position. The indicators in         two of those at rest positions will respectively each be the         same distance from the respective first face in each of the         corresponding at rest positions;     -   in some embodiments each at rest position of an n-sided di may         provide a unique di value so that there are n unique di values.

The dice of the present invention differs significantly from other dice, in that rather than the di value being overtly provided by an Arabic number, symbol, letter or commonly the number of “pips”, the di value of the dice of the present invention is more covertly provided by the distance between the indicator and the first face, which contacts the playing surface. It is believed that such a novel di enhances the gaming experience and provide a unique point of difference to the sale of the dice, or as part of a broader game (including a board game). Conceptually, the provision of the di value from the di of the present invention is significantly different to the provision of the di value from published di.

It will be understood that the dice of the present invention represent a unique gaming experience, and one that may not be intuitive to the end user. As such, the present invention also provides a kit including the di of the invention together with instructions for use. The instructions may represent the operation of the di pictorially and/or through words.

The di of the present invention may use one type of indicator. For example each di value may be provided by a single type of indicator, such as a line. For example, a d8 may be provided such that each unique di value is provided by a solid line, the di value being relative to the distance between the solid line and the first face. For example:

-   -   the value 1 may be provided by a solid line at 1/9^(th) of the         height of the di;     -   the value 2 may be provided by a solid line at 2/9^(th) of the         height of the di;     -   the value 3 may be provided by a solid line at 3/9^(th) of the         height of the di;     -   the value 4 may be provided by a solid line at 4/9^(th) of the         height of the di;     -   the value 5 may be provided by a solid line at 5/9^(th) of the         height of the di. It will be appreciated that inverting this         position provides the value 4 since the solid line is now         4/9^(th) of the height of the di;     -   the value 6 may be provided by a solid line at 6/9^(th) of the         height of the di. It will be appreciated that inverting this         position provides the value 3 since the solid line is now         3/9^(th) of the height of the di;     -   the value 7 may be provided by a solid line at 7/9^(th) of the         height of the di. It will be appreciated that inverting this         position provides the value 2 since the solid line is now         2/9^(th) of the height of the di; and     -   the value 8 may be provided by a solid line at 8/9^(th) of the         height of the di. It will be appreciated that inverting this         position provides the value 1 since the solid line is now         1/9^(th) of the height of the di.

In such an embodiment of a d8, it will be appreciated that for any given resting position, the difference between a di value of, for example, 1 and 2, or 3 and 4, may be difficult to discern given the dimensions of the di. In particular, a d8 may be as little as 20 mm tall in an at rest position. As such, the difference between sequential unique di values may be of the order of 2-3 mm which may be difficult to discern for the user. This issue typically becomes more pronounced for di having 8 or more unique di values, such as 10 or more, 12 or more. Advantageously, the present invention addresses this problem by providing dice which may use more than one type of indicator. The use of more than one type of indicator may be particularly advantageous to more clearly provide the unique di value for any at rest position. For instance, sequential numbers may be represented by alternating solid lines/dashed lines. For instance, values 1, 3, 6 and 8 can be represented on a d8 as solid lines, and values 2, 4, 5, 7 can be represented on the same d8 as dashed lines. In such an embodiment, the user will then only need to discern half as many increments as they would have to if a single type of indicator had been used.

In some embodiments, the di of the invention uses two different types of indicators. In some embodiments, the di of the inventions uses three, or four, or five, different types of indicators.

Furthermore, not every di value for any given di needs to be provided with a corresponding indicator. In particular, where the unique di value of an at rest position can be inferred from the di value system provided by the di, the unique di value of the at rest position may be provided without a corresponding indicator. For example, for three of the four unique di values on a triangular pyramidal d4, corresponding with three of the four at rest positions of the d4, there may be an indicator on at least one other of the plurality of faces, but for the fourth unique di value (at rest position) there may be no indicator on any of the other of the plurality of faces—that is the other of the plurality of faces may be blank, for example. The fourth unique di value in such an instance may be inferred from the other unique di values corresponding to the other at rest positions. For example, where the other at rest positions of the d4 in this example correspond to unique di values 1, 2, 3, then it can be inferred that the “blank” di value corresponds with a unique di value of 4. Nonetheless, such a di is contemplated by the present invention since the di has at least one at rest position where the di value in the at rest position is provided by at least one indicator on at least one other of the plurality of faces, the di value being relative to the distance between the indicator and the first face.

It should be noted here that the absence of an indicator on one or more of the faces should be understood as meaning the absence of an indicator that is relevant to providing a unique di value. That is, the “blank” face may still have other markings on it, but those markings are not indicators of a particular di value in that particular orientation—instead those markings are indicators for other orientations with other first faces. For example, the “blank” face may have inconsequential lines, grooves, colours, etc on it such that none of those lines, grooves, colours, etc are indicative of a di value.

Accordingly the di of the invention may provide a plurality of di values, wherein at least one of the di values is determined without the presence of an indicator. For example, the at least one of the di values determined without the presence of an indicator can be inferred from at least one of the other di values provided by the di.

A non-exhaustive list of possible di value systems contemplated by the present invention include the following:

number of types of di type di shape di value system indicators d2 cylinder 1, 2 1 d3 cylinder 1 and 2 on ends, 3 on side (thickness chosen to ensure 1 equal odds of landing on end or side) d4 triangular 1, 2, 3, 4 1 (plus blank pyramid for “4”) d4 triangular 0, 1, 2, 3 1 (plus blank pyramid for “0”) d6 cube 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6 1 d6 cube 1, 2, 3, 1, 2, 3 1 d6 cube 0, 1, 2, 0, 1, 2 1 (plus blank for “0”) d6 cube 0, −1, −2, 0, 1, 2 2 (plus blank for “0”) d6 cube +, −, 0, +, −, 0 1 (plus blank for “0”) d6 cube 1, 2, 0, 1, 2, 0 1 (plus blank for “0”) d8 square bi- 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8 1 pyramidal d8 square bi- 1, 2, 3, 4, 1, 2, 3, 4 1 pyramidal d8 square bi- 1, 2, 3, 4-first indicator type 2 pyramidal 1, 2, 3, 4-second indicator type (eg add 4 to value-to get 5, 6, 7, 8) d8 square bi- 1, 2, 3, 4-first indicator type 2 pyramidal −1, −2, −3, −4-second indicator type d10 pentagonal 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10 1 trapezohedron d10 pentagonal 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 1, 2, 3, 4, 5 1 trapezohedron d10 pentagonal 1, 2, 3, 4, 5-first indicator type 2 trapezohedron 1, 2, 3, 4, 5-second indicator type (eg add 5 to value) d10 pentagonal 1, 2, 3, 4, 5-first indicator type 2 trapezohedron 1, 2, 3, 4, 5-second indicator type (eg add 5 to value) d10 pentagonal 1, 2, 3, 4, 5-first indicator type 2 trapezohedron 1, 2, 3, 4, 5-second indicator type (eg add 5 to value) d12 dodecahedron 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, 11, 12 1 d12 dodecahedron 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6-first indicator type 2 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6-second indicator type (eg add 6 to value) d12 dodecahedron 1, 2, 3, 4-first indicator system 3 1, 2, 3, 4-second indicator system (eg add 4 to value) 1, 2, 3, 4-third indicator system (eg add 8 to value) d20 icosahedron 1, 2, 3, 4-first indicator system 5 1, 2, 3, 4-second indicator system (eg add 4 to value) 1, 2, 3, 4-third indicator system (eg add 8 to value) 1, 2, 3, 4-fourth indicator system (eg add 12 to value) 1, 2, 3, 4-fifth indicator system (eg add 16 to value) d20 icosahedron 1, 2, 3, 4, 5-first indicator system 4 1, 2, 3, 4, 5-second indicator system (eg add 5 to value) 1, 2, 3, 4, 5-third indicator system (eg add 10 to value) 1, 2, 3, 4, 5-fourth indicator system (eg add 15 to value)

In one aspect the invention provides a substantially cubic di having six faces such that when at rest on a surface:

-   -   a first face of the di contacts the surface;     -   a second face is provided parallel to the first face;     -   third, fourth, fifth and sixth faces are provided substantially         orthogonal to the first and second faces;         such that when in an at rest position on a surface the di         provides a di value, such that the di value in the at rest         position is provided by at least one indicator on at least one         of the third, fourth, fifth and/or sixth faces, the di value         being relative to the distance between the indicator and the         first face.

It will be understood that one or more of the corners of a substantially cubic di may be rounded, truncated, or in some other way altered to affect the overall aesthetic and/or rolling qualities of the di. For the avoidance of doubt, the present invention contemplates such altered geometries and reference to a substantially cubic di having six faces contemplates that the substantially cubic di may have greater than six faces.

In one aspect the invention provides a substantially triangular pyramidal di having four faces such that when at rest on a surface:

-   -   a first face of the di contacts the surface;     -   second, third, and fourth faces are provided substantially         adjacent to the first face;         such that when in an at rest position on a surface the di         provides a di value, such that the di value in the at rest         position is provided by at least one indicator on at least one         of the second, third and/or fourth faces, the di value being         relative to the distance between the indicator and the first         face.

It will be understood that one or more of the corners of a substantially triangular pyramidal di may be rounded, truncated, or in some other way altered to affect the overall aesthetic and/or rolling qualities of the di. For the avoidance of doubt, the present invention contemplates such altered geometries and reference to a substantially triangular pyramidal di having four faces contemplates that the substantially triangular pyramidal di may have greater than four faces.

In one aspect the invention provides use of a di to provide a di value, said di having a plurality of faces such that when in an at rest position on a surface a first face of the di contacts the surface such that the di value in the at rest position is provided by at least one indicator on at least one other of the plurality of faces, the di value being relative to the distance between the indicator and the first face.

In one aspect the invention provides a method of obtaining a di value from a di, the method including the steps of:

(i) a user capturing the di in the user's hand;

(ii) the user releasing the di from the user's hand so that the di contacts a surface and a first face of the di comes to an at rest position contacting the surface;

(ii) determining the di value from the properties of the di in the at rest position;

such that the di value in the at rest position is provided by at least one indicator on at least one other of the plurality of faces, the di value being relative to the distance between the indicator and the first face.

In the method of the invention the “properties” of the di include the position (such as distance) and/or orientation of the at least one indicator from the surface.

In the method of the invention the step of the user capturing the di in the user's hand may involve any one or more of: the user picking the di up in the user's hand; the user holding the di in the palm of the user's hand; and/or the user holding the di inside a closed hand grip.

In the method of the invention the step of the user releasing the di from the user's hand so that the di contacts a surface and a first face of the di comes to an at rest position contacting the surface may involve any one or more of: the user releasing (such as dropping and/or rolling) the di out of the user's hand; the di rolling across a playing surface (such as a table and/or board); and/or the di slowing under the influence of air resistance, friction, and/or gravity to become at rest (stationary).

In some embodiments of the method a single di is used. In other embodiments a plurality of dice are used. Where a plurality of dice are used, the dice may be the same or different in form, including the use of a di of the present invention in combination with a di that is not of the present invention. Where a plurality of dice are used, the plurality may be used separately, sequentially or simultaneously. For example, in one embodiment of the method, the user may roll two dice at the same time. In another embodiment the user may roll a first di and then sequentially or separately roll a second di. The decision to roll the second di may be based on the di value obtained from the first di.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF DRAWINGS

Further aspects of the present invention will become apparent from the following description which is given by way of example only and with reference to the accompanying drawings in which:

FIG. 1 depicts a perspective view of a d6 of the invention in a first position. The distance (d) between the indicator (14) and the first face (4) is shown in a two dimensional planar representation;

FIG. 2 depicts a perspective view of the d6 shown in FIG. 1 in a second position. The distance (d) between the indicator (26) and the first face (16) is shown in a two dimensional planar representation;

FIG. 3 depicts a perspective view of the d6 shown in FIG. 1 in a third position. The distance (d) between the indicator (38) and the first face (28) is shown in a two dimensional planar representation;

FIG. 4 depicts a perspective view of the d6 shown in FIG. 1 in a fourth position;

FIG. 5 depicts a perspective view of the d6 shown in FIG. 1 in a fifth position;

FIG. 6 FIG. 2 depicts a perspective view of the d6 shown in FIG. 1 in a sixth position;

FIG. 7 depicts a perspective view of a d4 of the invention at rest in a first position on a surface. The distance (d) between the indicator (56) and the first face (48) is shown in a two dimensional planar representation;

FIG. 8 shows a perspective view of the same d4 from FIG. 7, in a different at rest position;

FIG. 9 shows a perspective view of the same d4 from FIGS. 7 and 8, in a different at rest position;

FIG. 10 shows a perspective view of the same d4 from FIGS. 7, 8 and 9, in a different at rest position;

FIGS. 11.1-11.3 show side profiles of three different at rest positions of the same d6. Only the indicator line used to determine the value represented shown. Other indicators on each face, not used to determine value, omitted for clarity;

FIGS. 12.1-12.3 provide schematics for how indicator lines may be marked on the (side) vertical aspect of a di having n sides that is in an at rest position, where n is an even number and is greater than or equal to 6;

FIGS. 13.1-13.3 show side profiles of three different at rest positions of the same d6. This d6 provides 3 unique di values;

FIGS. 14.1-14.3 provide schematics for how indicator lines (134) may be marked on the (side) vertical aspect of a di having n sides that is in an at rest position, where n is an even number and is greater than or equal to 6 and where n/2 is an odd number. The spacings of the indicator lines provide (n/2) unique di values;

FIGS. 15.1-15.2 provide schematics for how indicator lines may be marked on the (side) vertical aspect of a di having n sides that is in an at rest position, where n is an even number and is greater than or equal to 6 and where n/2 is an even number. The spacings of the indicator lines provide (n/2) unique di values;

FIGS. 16.1-16.4 show an exemplary d4 of the invention in four different at rest positions. Only the indicator line used to determine the value represented shown. Other indicators on each face, not used to determine value, omitted for clarity;

FIG. 17 shows a side profile of a d6 using a different (coloured) indicator scheme which is useful in the present invention; and

FIG. 18 shows a perspective view of a d6 using a different indicator scheme which is useful in the present invention.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS OF THE INVENTION

While the invention has broader application, it is believed that the invention will be most successfully applied to d6 and d4. As such, the following description is with reference to d6 and d4 systems, although this should not be seen as limiting.

FIG. 1 depicts a perspective view of a d6 (2) of the invention at rest in a first position on a surface (not shown). Contacting the surface is a first face (4; obscured). A second face (6) is provided parallel to the first face (4). A third (8) face and a fourth (10) face are provided as well as fifth and sixth faces (obscured). A line (12; 14) is provided that runs approximately parallel to the surface across the third face (8) and fourth face (10). The line continues around at the same distance relative to the first face across the fifth and sixth faces. The line is an indicator of the di value for the at rest position shown. In this instance, the distance between the line and the first face is minimal and the unique di value for the at rest position shown may be given as 1 (although this should not be seen as limiting, and in a different di value system, the indicator could indicate a di value of 6).

FIG. 2 shows a perspective view of the same d6 (2) from FIG. 1, in a different at rest position. The different at rest position provides different first, second, third, fourth, fifth and sixth faces to the faces of the at rest position of FIG. 1. Accordingly, the d6 (2) of the invention is at rest in a first position on a surface (not shown). Contacting the surface is a first face (16; obscured). A second face (18) is provided parallel to the first face (16). A third (20) face and a fourth (22) face are provided as well as fifth and sixth faces (obscured). A line (24; 26) is provided that runs approximately parallel to the surface across the third face (20) and fourth face (22). The line continues around at the same distance relative to the first face across the fifth and sixth faces. The line is an indicator of the di value for the at rest position shown. In this instance, the distance between the line and the first face is slightly greater than the distance between the line and the corresponding first face in the at rest position shown in FIG. 1 and the unique di value for the at rest position shown may be given as 2 (although this should not be seen as limiting, and in a different di value system, the indicator could indicate a di value of 5).

FIG. 3 shows a perspective view of the same d6 (2) from FIGS. 1 and 2, in a different at rest position. The different at rest position provides different first, second, third, fourth, fifth and sixth faces to the faces of the at rest positions of FIGS. 1 and 2. Accordingly, the d6 (2) of the invention is at rest in a first position on a surface (not shown). Contacting the surface is a first face (28; obscured). A second face (30) is provided parallel to the first face (28). A third (32) face and a fourth (34) face are provided as well as fifth and sixth faces (obscured). A line (36; 38) is provided that runs approximately parallel to the surface across the third face (32) and fourth face (34). The line continues around at the same distance relative to the first face across the fifth and sixth faces. The line is an indicator of the di value for the at rest position shown. In this instance, the distance between the line and the first face is slightly greater than the distance between the line and the corresponding first face in the at rest position shown in FIG. 2 and the unique di value for the at rest position shown may be given as 3 (although this should not be seen as limiting, and in a different di value system, the indicator could indicate a di value of 4).

FIG. 4 shows a perspective view of the same d6 (2) from FIGS. 1, 2 and 3, in a different at rest position. The different at rest position provides different first, second, third, fourth, fifth and sixth faces to the faces of the at rest positions of FIGS. 1, 2 and 3. However, the at rest position of FIG. 4 is simply the at rest position of FIG. 3 which has been inverted—that is the first face of FIG. 3 is now the second face of FIG. 4 and the second face of FIG. 3 is now the first face of FIG. 4. As such, the height of the indicator line (40) is more distant from the surface than the line in FIG. 3 and the unique di value for the at rest position shown may be given as 4 (although this should not be seen as limiting, and in a different di value system, the indicator could indicate a di value of 3).

FIG. 5 shows a perspective view of the same d6 (2) from FIGS. 1, 2, 3 and 4, in a different at rest position. The different at rest position provides different first, second, third, fourth, fifth and sixth faces to the faces of the at rest positions of FIGS. 1, 2, 3 and 4. However, the at rest position of FIG. 5 is simply the at rest position of FIG. 2 which has been inverted—that is the first face of FIG. 2 is now the second face of FIG. 5 and the second face of FIG. 2 is now the first face of FIG. 5. As such, the height of the indicator line (42) is more distant from the surface than the line in FIG. 2 and the unique di value for the at rest position shown may be given as 5 (although this should not be seen as limiting, and in a different di value system, the indicator could indicate a di value of 2).

FIG. 6 shows a perspective view of the same d6 (2) from FIGS. 1, 2, 3, 4 and 5, in a different at rest position. The different at rest position provides different first, second, third, fourth, fifth and sixth faces to the faces of the at rest positions of FIGS. 1, 2, 3, 4 and 5. However, the at rest position of FIG. 6 is simply the at rest position of FIG. 1 which has been inverted—that is the first face of FIG. 1 is now the second face of FIG. 6 and the second face of FIG. 1 is now the first face of FIG. 6. As such, the height of the indicator line (44) is more distant from the surface than the line in FIG. 1 and the unique di value for the at rest position shown may be given as 6 (although this should not be seen as limiting, and in a different di value system, the indicator could indicate a di value of 1).

FIG. 7 depicts a perspective view of a d4 (46) of the invention at rest in a first position on a surface (not shown). Contacting the surface is a first face (48; obscured). A second face (50) and a third face (52) and a fourth (obscured) face are provided. A groove (54; 56) is provided that runs approximately parallel to the surface across the second face (50) and third face (52). The groove continues around at the same distance relative to the first face across the fourth face. The groove is an indicator of the di value for the at rest position shown. In this instance, the distance between the groove and the first face is substantial (the groove is close to the apex (58) of the d4) and the unique di value for the at rest position shown may be given as 1 (although this should not be seen as limiting, and in a different di value system, the indicator could indicate a di value of 3).

FIG. 8 shows a perspective view of the same d4 (46) from FIG. 7, in a different at rest position. The different at rest position provides different first, second, third, and fourth faces to the faces of the at rest position of FIG. 7. Accordingly, the d4 (46) of the invention is at rest in a first position on a surface (not shown). Contacting the surface is a first face (60; obscured). A groove (66; 68) is provided that runs approximately parallel to the surface across the second face (62) and third face (64). The groove continues around at the same distance relative to the first face across the fourth face. The groove is an indicator of the di value for the at rest position shown. In this instance, the distance between the groove and the first face is less than the corresponding distance in the at rest position shown in FIG. 7 and the unique di value for the at rest position shown in FIG. 8 may be given as 2. (although this should not be seen as limiting).

FIG. 9 shows a perspective view of the same d4 (46) from FIGS. 7 and 8, in a different at rest position. The different at rest position provides different first, second, third, and fourth faces to the faces of the at rest position of FIG. 7 and of FIG. 8. Accordingly, the d4 (46) of the invention is at rest in a first position on a surface (not shown). Contacting the surface is a first face (70; obscured). A second face (72) and a third face (74) and a fourth (obscured) face are provided. A groove (76; 78) is provided that runs approximately parallel to the surface across the second face (72) and third face (74). The groove continues around at the same distance relative to the first face across the fourth face. The groove is an indicator of the di value for the at rest position shown. In this instance, the distance between the groove and the first face is less than the corresponding distance in each of the at rest positions shown in FIGS. 7 and 8 and the unique di value for the at rest position shown in FIG. 9 may be given as 3 (although this should not be seen as limiting, and in a different di value system, the indicator could indicate a di value of 1).

FIG. 10 shows a perspective view of the same d4 (46) from FIGS. 7, 8 and 9, in a different at rest position. The different at rest position provides different first, second, third, and fourth faces to the faces of the at rest positions of FIGS. 7, 8 and 9. Accordingly, the d4 (46) of the invention is at rest in a first position on a surface (not shown). Contacting the surface is a first face (80; obscured). A second face (82) and a third face (84) and a fourth (obscured) face are provided. In this at rest position there is no indicator on any of the second, third or fourth faces that provides a di value. Instead, the di value may be inferred from the di values provided by the at rest positions shown in FIGS. 7, 8 and 9 optionally in combination with instructions provided with the di. As such, the unique di value for the at rest position shown in FIG. 10 may be given as 4 (although this should not be seen as limiting, and in a different di value system, the unique di value could be 0).

FIGS. 11.1-11.3 show side profiles of three different at rest positions of the same d6. This d6 provides 6 unique di values.

In FIG. 11.1, the d6 is in an at rest position wherein the first face (88) contacts the surface (not shown). In FIG. 11.1, an indicator line (90; other indicators not representing the di value from either face 88 or 89 are not shown for clarity) of thickness “d” is located at a relative height of 6 units above the first face (88). In a first embodiment, this at rest position could be assigned a unique di value of 1. In a second embodiment, this at rest position could be assigned a unique di value of 6. If the d6 were to be inverted, such that face (89) was the first face contacting the surface, then the indicator line (90) would be located at a relative height of 1 unit above the first face (89). In the first embodiment, this at rest position could be assigned a unique di value of 6. In the second embodiment, this at rest position could be assigned a unique di value of 1.

In FIG. 11.2, the d6 is in an at rest position wherein the first face (92) contacts the surface (not shown). In FIG. 11.2, an indicator line (94; other indicators not representing the di value from either face 88 or 89 are not shown for clarity) of thickness “d” is located at a relative height of 5 units above the first face (92). In the first embodiment, this at rest position could be assigned a unique di value of 2. In the second embodiment, this at rest position could be assigned a unique di value of 5. If the d6 were to be inverted, such that face (93) was the first face contacting the surface, then the indicator line (94 would be located at a relative height of 2 units above the first face (93). In the first embodiment, this at rest position could be assigned a unique di value of 5. In the second embodiment, this at rest position could be assigned a unique di value of 2.

In FIG. 11.3, the d6 is in an at rest position wherein the first face (96) contacts the surface (not shown). In FIG. 11.3, an indicator line (98; other indicators not representing the di value from either face 88 or 89 are not shown for clarity) of thickness “d” is located at a relative height of 4 units above the first face (96). In the first embodiment, this at rest position could be assigned a unique di value of 3. In the second embodiment, this at rest position could be assigned a unique di value of 4. If the d6 were to be inverted, such that face (97) was the first face contacting the surface, then the indicator line (98) would be located at a relative height of 2 units above the first face (97). In the first embodiment, this at rest position could be assigned a unique di value of 4. In the second embodiment, this at rest position could be assigned a unique di value of 3.

In some embodiments, each of lines 90, 94 and 98 may not be continuous or may not be present on all faces. In other embodiments, each of lines 90, 94 and 98 will continue around the d6 at the same relative height to the respective first faces. In those embodiments, each face will provide two lines intersecting orthogonally to each other, in the same or similar relationship to that shown in FIGS. 1 to 6.

FIGS. 12.1-12.3 provide schematics for how indicator lines (100; other indicators not representing the di value are not shown for clarity) may be marked on the (side) vertical aspect of a di having n sides that is in an at rest position, where n is an even number and is greater than or equal to 6. It will be noted that the square outline (102) is not necessarily intended to reflect the outline of the geometrical shape of the di. That said, in the instance that the di is a d6 then the schematics provided in FIGS. 12.1-12.3 reflect the square side profiles of the d6 dice shown in FIGS. 11.1-11.3. In the schematic shown in FIG. 12.1, an indicator line (100) of thickness “d” (which may be any suitable thickness—including zero thickness as present at the boundary of two colours/shades/etc) is provided positioned at a distance of one unit from upper extremity (104) of the geometrical shape, which may be a face or apex of the shape. The indicator line (100) is at a relative height of “n” units above the lower extremity (106) of the geometrical shape, which will be a first face of the shape contacting the surface (not shown) in the at rest position. The unique di value assigned to the indicator line in FIG. 12.1 may be 1, or may be n. In the schematic shown in FIG. 12.2, an indicator line (108) of thickness “d” is provided positioned at a distance of two units from upper extremity (110) of the geometrical shape, which may be a face or apex of the shape. The indicator line (108) is at a relative height of “n−1” units above the lower extremity (112) of the geometrical shape, which will be a first face of the shape contacting the surface (not shown) in the at rest position. The unique di value assigned to the indicator line in FIG. 12.2 may be 2, or may be n−1. This sequence continues until in the schematic shown in FIG. 12.3, an indicator line (114) of thickness “d” is provided positioned at a distance of n/2 units from upper extremity (116) of the geometrical shape, which may be a face or apex of the shape. The indicator line (114) is at a relative height of “(n/2)+1” units above the lower extremity (118) of the geometrical shape, which will be a first face of the shape contacting the surface (not shown) in the at rest position. The unique di value assigned to the indicator line in FIG. 12.3 may be n/2, or may be n/2+1.

FIGS. 13.1-13.3 show side profiles of three different at rest positions of the same d6. This d6 provides 3 unique di values.

In FIG. 13.1, the d6 is in an at rest position wherein the first face (120) contacts the surface (not shown). In FIG. 13.1, an indicator line (122) of thickness “d” is located at a relative height of 2 units above the first face (120). In a first embodiment, this at rest position could be assigned a unique di value of 1. In a second embodiment, this at rest position could be assigned a unique di value of 2. In a third embodiment, this at rest position could be assigned a unique di value of +. In a fourth embodiment, this at rest position could be assigned a unique di value of −. In a fifth embodiment, this at rest position could be assigned a unique di value of “yes”. In a sixth embodiment, this at rest position could be assigned a unique di value of “no”.

In FIG. 13.2, the d6 is in an at rest position wherein the first face (126) contacts the surface (not shown). In FIG. 13.2, an indicator line (128) of thickness “d” is located at a relative height of 1 unit above the first face (126). In the first embodiment, this at rest position could be assigned a unique di value of 2 In the second embodiment, this at rest position could be assigned a unique di value of 1. In the third embodiment, this at rest position could be assigned a unique di value of −. In the fourth embodiment, this at rest position could be assigned a unique di value of +. In the fifth embodiment, this at rest position could be assigned a unique di value of “no”. In the sixth embodiment, this at rest position could be assigned a unique di value of “yes”.

In FIG. 13.3, the d6 is in an at rest position wherein the first face (132) contacts the surface (not shown). In FIG. 13.3, there is no indicator line, and hence the unique di value may be inferred from the di values in the remaining at rest positions of the d6 and/or from instructions provided with the di. In the first and second embodiments, this at rest position could be assigned a unique di value of 3. In the third and fourth embodiments, this at rest position could be assigned a unique di value of 0. In the fifth and sixth embodiments, this at rest position could be assigned a unique di value of “maybe”.

FIGS. 14.1-14.3 provide schematics for how indicator lines (134) may be marked on the (side) vertical aspect of a di having n sides that is in an at rest position, where n is an even number and is greater than or equal to 6 and where n/2 is an odd number. The spacings of the indicator lines provide (n/2) unique di values.

It will be noted that the square outline (136) is not necessarily intended to reflect the outline of the geometrical shape of the di. In the schematic shown in FIG. 14.1, an indicator line (134) of thickness “d” is provided positioned at a distance of one unit from upper extremity (138) of the geometrical shape, which may be a face or apex of the shape. The indicator line (134) is at a relative height of “(n/2)−1” above the lower extremity (140) of the geometrical shape, which will be a first face of the shape contacting the surface (not shown) in the at rest position. In the schematic shown in FIG. 14.1, an indicator line (142) of thickness “d” is provided positioned at a distance of two units from upper extremity (144) of the geometrical shape, which may be a face or apex of the shape. The indicator line (142) is at a relative height of “(n/2)−2” above the lower extremity (146) of the geometrical shape, which will be a first face of the shape contacting the surface (not shown) in the at rest position. This sequence continues until in the schematic shown in FIG. 14.2, an indicator line (148) of thickness “d” is provided positioned at a distance of (n/2)−1 units from upper extremity (150) of the geometrical shape, which may be a face or apex of the shape. The indicator line (148) is at a relative height of 1 above the lower extremity (152) of the geometrical shape, which will be a first face of the shape contacting the surface (not shown) in the at rest position. In FIG. 14.3, there is no indicator line, and hence the unique di value may be inferred from the di values in the remaining at rest positions of the di and/or from instructions provided with the di.

FIGS. 15.1-15.2 provide schematics for how indicator lines (154) may be marked on the (side) vertical aspect of a di having n sides that is in an at rest position, where n is an even number and is greater than or equal to 6 and where n/2 is an even number. The spacings of the indicator lines provide (n/2) unique di values.

It will be noted that the square outline (156) is not necessarily intended to reflect the outline of the geometrical shape of the di. In the schematic shown in FIG. 15.1, an indicator line (154) of thickness “d” is provided positioned at a distance of one unit from upper extremity (158) of the geometrical shape, which may be a face or apex of the shape. The indicator line (154) is at a relative height of “(n/2)” above the lower extremity (160) of the geometrical shape, which will be a first face of the shape contacting the surface (not shown) in the at rest position. In the schematic shown in FIG. 15.1, an indicator line (162) of thickness “d” is provided positioned at a distance of two units from upper extremity (164) of the geometrical shape, which may be a face or apex of the shape. The indicator line (162) is at a relative height of “(n/2)−1” above the lower extremity (166) of the geometrical shape, which will be a first face of the shape contacting the surface (not shown) in the at rest position. This sequence continues until in the schematic shown in FIG. 15.2, an indicator line (168) of thickness “d” is provided positioned at a distance of (n/2) units from upper extremity (170) of the geometrical shape, which may be a face or apex of the shape. The indicator line (168) is at a relative height of 1 above the lower extremity (172) of the geometrical shape, which will be a first face of the shape contacting the surface (not shown) in the at rest position.

FIGS. 16.1-16.4 show an exemplary d4 (174) of the invention in four different at rest positions.

In FIG. 16.1, the d4 is in an at rest position wherein the first face (176) contacts the surface (not shown). In FIG. 16.1, an indicator line (178) of thickness “d” is located at a relative height of 3 units above the first face (176).

In FIG. 16.2, the d4 is in an at rest position wherein the first face (180) contacts the surface (not shown). In FIG. 16.2, an indicator line (182) of thickness “d” is located at a relative height of 2 units above the first face (180).

In FIG. 16.3, the d4 is in an at rest position wherein the first face (184) contacts the surface (not shown). In FIG. 16.3, an indicator line (186) of thickness “d” is located at a relative height of 1 unit above the first face (184).

In FIG. 16.4, the d4 is in an at rest position wherein the first face (188) contacts the surface (not shown). In FIG. 16.4, there is no indicator line, and hence the unique di value may be inferred from the di values in the remaining at rest positions of the d4 and/or from instructions provided with the di.

FIG. 17 shows a side profile of a d6 using a different (coloured) indicator scheme which is useful in the present invention. The indicator scheme uses different colours and the boundary (190) of the different colours provides an indicator—the di value being relative to the distance between the indicator and the first face (192). In the figure shown, and by way of example only, the upper left rectangle is yellow, the upper right rectangle is red, the lower left rectangle is blue, and the lower right rectangle is green.

FIG. 18 shows a perspective view of a d6 using a different indicator scheme which is useful in the present invention. The indicator scheme uses contrasting, alternating light and dark shading and the boundary (194) of the different shading provides an indicator—the di value being relative to the distance between the indicator and the first face (196; not shown).

The entire disclosures of all applications, patents and publications cited above and below, if any, are herein incorporated by reference.

All references, including any patents or patent applications cited in this specification are hereby incorporated by reference. No admission is made that any reference constitutes prior art. The discussion of the references states what their authors assert, and the applicants reserve the right to challenge the accuracy and pertinency of the cited documents. It will be clearly understood that, although a number of prior art publications are referred to herein, this reference does not constitute an admission that any of these documents form part of the common general knowledge in the art, in New Zealand or in any other country.

Unless the context clearly requires otherwise, throughout the description and the claims, the words “comprise”, “comprising”, and the like, are to be construed in an inclusive sense as opposed to an exclusive or exhaustive sense, that is to say, in the sense of “including, but not limited to”.

The invention may also be said broadly to consist in the parts, elements and features referred to or indicated in the specification of the application, individually or collectively, in any or all combinations of two or more of said parts, elements or features.

Where in the foregoing description reference has been made to integers or components having known equivalents thereof, those integers are herein incorporated as if individually set forth.

It should be noted that various changes and modifications to the presently preferred embodiments described herein will be apparent to those skilled in the art. Such changes and modifications may be made without departing from the spirit and scope of the invention and without diminishing its attendant advantages. It is therefore intended that such changes and modifications be included within the present invention.

Aspects of the present invention have been described by way of example only and it should be appreciated that modifications and additions may be made thereto without departing from the scope thereof. 

1. A di having a plurality of faces such that when in an at rest position on a surface: (i) a first face of the di contacts the surface; and (ii) the di provides a di value; such that the di value in the at rest position is provided by at least one indicator on at least one other of the plurality of faces, the di value being relative to the distance between the indicator and the first face.
 2. The di according to claim 1 wherein the distance between the indicator and the first face is a vertical distance.
 3. The di according to claim 1 or claim 2 wherein the surface is a substantially horizontal surface.
 4. The di according to any one of claims 1 to 3 wherein the at least one indicator is a visual and/or tactile indicator.
 5. The di according to any one of claims 1 to 4 wherein the indicator is selected from one or more of the following: mark; tactile indicator; and/or colour.
 6. The di according to claim 5 wherein the mark is selected from mark of substantially one dimension; mark of substantially two dimensions; and/or mark of substantially three dimensions.
 7. The di according to claim 6 wherein the mark of substantially one dimension is selected from: dot; and/or intersection of two or more lines.
 8. The di according to claim 6 wherein the mark of substantially two dimensions is a line.
 9. The di according to claim 6 wherein the mark of substantially three dimensions is selected from: indent; groove; and/or ridge.
 10. The di according to any one of claims 1 to 9 having n faces, such that the di provides n unique di values.
 11. The di according to any one of claims 1 to 10 having more than one type of indicator.
 12. The di according to claim 11 having solid lines as a first type of indicator and dashed lines as a second type of indicator.
 13. The di according to any one of claims 1 to 12 having from 2 to 120 faces.
 14. The di according to any one of claims 1 to 13 having from 2 to 20 faces.
 15. The di according to any one of claims 1 to 14 having from 4 to 8 faces.
 16. The di according to any one of claims 1 to 15 having 4 or 6 faces.
 17. The di of any one of claims 1 to 16 providing a plurality of di values, wherein at least one of the di values is determined without the presence of an indicator.
 18. The di according to claim 17 wherein the at least one of the di values determined without the presence of an indicator can be inferred from at least one of the other di values provided by the di.
 19. A substantially cubic di having six faces such that when at rest on a surface: a first face of the di contacts the surface; a second face is provided parallel to the first face; third, fourth, fifth and sixth faces are provided substantially orthogonal to the first and second faces; such that when in an at rest position on a surface the di provides a di value, such that the di value in the at rest position is provided by at least one indicator on at least one of the third, fourth, fifth and/or sixth faces, the di value being relative to the distance between the indicator and the first face.
 20. The di of claim 19 providing a plurality of di values, wherein at least one of the di values is determined without the presence of an indicator.
 21. The di according to claim 20 wherein the at least one of the di values determined without the presence of an indicator can be inferred from at least one of the other di values provided by the di.
 22. A substantially triangular pyramidal di having four faces such that when at rest on a surface: a first face of the di contacts the surface; second, third, and fourth faces are provided substantially adjacent to the first face; such that when in an at rest position on a surface the di provides a di value, such that the di value in the at rest position is provided by at least one indicator on at least one of the second, third and/or fourth faces, the di value being relative to the distance between the indicator and the first face.
 23. The di of claim 22 providing a plurality of di values, wherein at least one of the di values is determined without the presence of an indicator.
 24. The di according to claim 23 wherein the at least one of the di values determined without the presence of an indicator can be inferred from at least one of the other di values provided by the di.
 25. A kit of parts including the di of any one of claims 1 to 24 together with instructions for use of the di.
 26. Use of a di to provide a di value, said di having a plurality of faces such that when in an at rest position on a surface a first face of the di contacts the surface such that the di value in the at rest position is provided by at least one indicator on at least one other of the plurality of faces, the di value being relative to the distance between the indicator and the first face.
 27. Method of obtaining a di value from a di, the method including the steps of: (i) a user capturing the di in the user's hand; (ii) the user releasing the di from the user's hand so that the di contacts a surface and a first face of the di comes to an at rest position contacting the surface; (ii) determining the di value from the properties of the di in the at rest position; such that the di value in the at rest position is provided by at least one indicator on at least one other of the plurality of faces, the di value being relative to the distance between the indicator and the first face. 